Consultation
Although many patients who visit the Vein Center are referred by physicians around Louisiana and neighboring states, most people are self-referred or sent by family or friends who have been treated here. The process could not be easier. Just call our toll-free number at 888-499-VEIN (8346) to set up an appointment or have information mailed to you, INCLUDING A FREE INFORMATIVE DVD.
Consultation Procedure
Because of the complexities of venous disease and its frequent association with other medical conditions, a complete medical history is taken on every patient seen at the Vein Center of Louisiana. A careful physical examination of both the arterial and venous circulation is also performed.
A thorough evaluation usually takes about 60 minutes, thus allowing adequate time to make an accurate diagnosis. What a patient might perceive as a simple problem might be quite complicated. And, conversely, a condition considered by the patient to be serious may be very simple to treat.
The Vein Center of Louisiana takes advantage of the most modern diagnostic techniques available to insure our patients get the best quality care. Painless, non-invasive diagnostic tests are performed in our modern in-house vascular laboratory, including a color flow duplex ultrasound scanner operated by a registered vascular technologist.
As much time as necessary is taken to insure that the patient understands the diagnosis. Treatment options are discussed in detail.
Costs
Since every case is different, and because a patient's perception of the nature and severity of the condition may be different than it actually is, it is not possible to give an accurate treatment cost estimate over the telephone. When treatment recommendations are made all costs will be discussed in detail and tailored to the specific patient needs.
Insurance
Most insurance companies consider the treatment of varicose veins that are causing painful symptoms to be "medically necessary." Spider veins are always considered "cosmetic." A knowledgeable staff member will discuss insurance reimbursement procedures in cases of medical necessity and will help with obtaining pre-certification.
Payment Plans
For "cosmetic" procedures (not generally covered by insurance) as well as for out-of-pocket expenses (deductibles, etc.) on other procedures, several convenient options are available including an interest-free financing program.